Keeping Your Eyelids Clean

Inflamed eyelids, also known as blepharitis, is something that many people experience at some point during their lives. Blepharitis is a commonly occurring eyelid inflammation, usually associated with an already existing bacterial eye infection, some sorts of skin conditions, or dry eyes.

Generally, symptoms include itching, burning, redness, the feeling of a gritty or foreign body in the eye, tearing and crusting around the eye. Blepharitis can sometimes be difficult to deal with, because it's chronic.

You'll be glad to hear that there are numerous options available to deal with blepharitis and make sure your eyes stay clean and healthy. Begin by applying a warm towel to your outer eyelids to facilitate loosening the crust that may have formed on your eyelids and eyelashes before you begin the washing process. The warmth from the washcloth will also help remove any remaining residue in your eyelids' oil secreting glands. In the first stage of treatment, you will probably need to apply a warm compress several times every day for about five minutes. Later on, you may only need to apply the compress for about five minutes each day.

Washing your eyelids well is fundamental to treating blepharitis, so it's best to find a commercial lid scrub or whatever product your optometrist recommends. Be sure to lightly massage the outside of your eyelids and all residue should be rinsed off after the cleansing process.

Although it may be uncomfortable, blepharitis is not infectious and in the vast majority of cases, does not cause any enduring harm to your vision, so make an appointment with your O. D. about the most effective way to maintain eyelid hygiene.